The Fund recently launched an Instagram photo contest in the ASEAN countries for youth to showcase how their countries address inequality and climate change. The contest attracted more than 180 entries between March 1 and April 7, 2018.

Through their photos, contestants told stories of gender inequality, jobs, climate change and financial inclusion - key issues for the Fund’s work. Two winners were chosen by a panel based on impact,creativity, subject matter, and technical excellence.

Rexor Amancio from the Philippines won the first prize in the Climate Change category. His photo tells us that the Philippine government adopts energy efficiency concepts, implements energy conservation, and increases investments in renewable energy to combat climate change. The Philippines are hit by an average of 20 typhoons every year.

Kevin Marcellino from Indonesia won the first prize for the Inequality category. His photo describes the benefits of “Kartu Indonesia Pintar (KIP)”, a program by the Indonesian government which aims to provide cash assistance for youth aged 6-21 years old, and equality of education - key to economic growth.

The two winners will receive a 3-day trip to Bali to attend the IMF Annual Meetings. A second Instagram photo contest is scheduled for June 18 to August 17, 2018. This contest will focus on the progress made by ASEAN countries in empowering women in the economy, and on how ASEAN countries are shaping the future of the digital economy. It will be open to ASEAN citizens of all ages and two additional winners will be selected to participate in the 2018 Annual Meetings in Bali.